Notes and Editorial Reviews

This recording includes the premiere recording of the 1834 revised version of the Italian Symphony as well as the original version of this symphony.Felix Mendelssohn was a dazzling child prodigy who made his public debut at age nine. Two of Mendelssohn's earliest masterpieces, the Octet and Overture to 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' were composed before he was 18 years old, a feat reminiscent of the young Mozart. Surprisingly Mendelssohn was plagued by self-doubts and was a demanding perfectionist who revised all of his major works. This recording presents two of his most famous symphonies: No. 4 in A major, the 'Italian,' and No.5 in D major, the 'Reformation.' The 'Italian' is presented in two versions, one being the world premiere ofRead more Mendelssohn's 1834 revised version.Mendelssohn's revisions for the last three movements of his 'Italian' Symphony are subtle and concern details of scoring, melodic contour and harmony. It's fascinating to have two versions of the same familiar symphony on the same recording. It also helps to have the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of John Eliot Gardiner in performances that capture all of the incandescent splendor of the music. Read less